ConsumerLab.com just recently updated their tests of various apple cider vinegar products (paid access only) for both liquids and pills, and I wanted to share a little about the results.
First, if you’re not a paid member of ConsumerLab.com and you work in the health industry, it’s well worth the membership costs ($2.88 per mo.). Their independent tests and reports on supplements are unbiased and thorough.
This is a quick rundown of CL’s review so that you could decide if the benefits are something you want to look into further.
Benefits of apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tbsp before meals reduces blood sugar levels in insulin resistant people
- 1/2 tbsp before meals has slight improvement in insulin res. in people with Type 2 Dia.
- 1 tbsp with meals (2 tbsp. per day) modestly decreases weight
- Diluted vinegar may help chronic ear infections using ear irrigation (3x per week for 3 weeks). But it’s very important to remove all vinegar or it can cause erosion
Unproven Benefits
- No studies showing it improves digestion
- No studies to show it decreases bloating
- Not shown to reduce heartburn (may actually irritate more)
- no evidence that it affects blood PH
Product Tests
They did a ton of tests on many different supplements, but you’ll have to become a member of theirs to see it. I’m not sure what I’m allowed to share, so I’ll just quickly mention that the brand that most of us are familiar with – Braggs Organic Raw Unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar – passes CL’s tests for acetic acid content and for not exceeding limits of lead, cadmium, or arsenic. So I guess keep using it if you already are or start using it if not!